A reproduction gas pump can make a great feature beside a garage, patio, or outdoor entertaining area. The pump body is made of fiberglass with a gelcoat finish—the kind of construction you see on boats—so the body itself can handle outdoor exposure.
The catch is that not every part of the pump is sealed for the weather.
Protect the Globe and Gauge Face
The lenses in the top globe and the front computer face, where the gauges are located, are not sealed for outdoor use. Rainwater can get behind these areas and reach the inside of the pump or its electronics.
If you plan to keep the pump outside, seal around the globe lenses and the front gauge face with a suitable exterior-grade sealant, such as silicone. Take care to close off the places where water could enter. The fiberglass body may be ready for the outdoors, but the openings still need attention.
Plan the Power and Lighting
The illuminated globe and computer face need power. For an outdoor installation, plan to plug the pump into a GFCI-protected outdoor outlet with a weatherproof cover.
You can also make the lights easier to control. A switched outlet lets you turn the pump on from another location—for example, with a switch inside the garage that lights up pumps at the driveway entrance. A timer or photocell can switch the lights on automatically, so the globe and computer face come on at a set time or when it gets dark.
Have the outlet and controls installed for outdoor use by a qualified electrician. The electrical setup should also be protected from weather; sealing the pump itself does not make its plug or outlet weatherproof.
Think Twice About Decals in Direct Sun
If the pump will sit in direct sunlight, it’s better to skip the decal option. Sunlight can fade decals over time, taking some of the shine off your display.
Ready for Its Outdoor Debut?
With the vulnerable areas properly sealed, a suitable outdoor power setup, and the decal option avoided in sunny locations, a reproduction gas pump can add a memorable touch to an outdoor space. A little preparation helps keep the weather outside—and the good looks on display.
